The clearly-erroneous standard allows a higher court to assess the lower court’s factual decisions. Essentially, the higher court will only overturn the lower court’s decision if they are highly confident that an error was made.
The clearly-erroneous standard is a legal term that refers to the standard of review used by appellate courts when examining factual issues addressed by trial courts. According to this standard, a judgement will be upheld unless the appellate court firmly believes that an error has occurred. For instance, if a trial court determines a defendant’s guilt based on the evidence presented during the trial, the appellate court will apply the clearly-erroneous standard when reviewing this determination. The appellate court will only overturn the trial court’s decision if it is convinced that an error was made in interpreting the evidence. Similarly, in a civil case where a trial court awards damages to a plaintiff based on the evidence presented, the appellate court will use the clearly-erroneous standard when reviewing this decision. The appellate court will only reverse the trial court’s ruling if it finds that a mistake was made in interpreting the evidence. These examples demonstrate how the clearly-erroneous standard is employed to ensure that trial court judgements are not overturned unless there is a clear error in the interpretation of the evidence presented during the trial.
The clearly-erroneous standard is a legal standard used in administrative law to determine whether a decision or action by a government agency is so clearly wrong that it must be overturned.
The clearly-erroneous standard is applied by reviewing courts when they are asked to review a decision made by a government agency. The court will consider whether the agency’s decision is so clearly wrong that no reasonable person could have made it.
The clearly-erroneous standard is a higher standard of review than the arbitrary and capricious standard. The clearly-erroneous standard requires a showing that the agency’s decision is clearly wrong, while the arbitrary and capricious standard only requires a showing that the decision was not based on a rational basis.
The clearly-erroneous standard is typically applied to decisions made by government agencies in areas such as environmental regulation, telecommunications, and securities regulation.
The burden of proof under the clearly-erroneous standard is on the party challenging the agency’s decision. They must show that the decision is so clearly wrong that it must be overturned.
No, under the clearly-erroneous standard, a court cannot substitute its judgment for that of the agency. The court can only overturn the agency’s decision if it is so clearly wrong that no reasonable person could have made it.
In determining whether a decision is clearly erroneous, a court will consider factors such as the evidence presented to the agency, the agency’s expertise in the subject matter, and whether the decision is supported by a rational basis.
Yes, a clearly-erroneous decision can be overturned on appeal if the reviewing court finds that the decision is so clearly wrong that it must be overturned.
Individuals who believe a government agency has made a clearly-erroneous decision can challenge the decision in court through a process known as judicial review.
Individuals can best prepare to challenge a government agency’s decision under the clearly-erroneous standard by gathering evidence to support their position, understanding the agency’s decision-making process, and seeking legal representation from an attorney experienced in administrative law.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
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